Are Low Power Tube Amps Worth The Troubl

Has anyone used the $700 Decware Zen Triode?

I had the use of one of the early versions (unpainted chassis) for a weekend and it was very impressive for ($500-$550, think that is what it sold for). The newer versions are said to be even better. It was "extremely" detailed and I would not suggest using it with mid-fi source components if you want great sound. There is a good review, by Thorston, of the "C" version at the TNT website.

Can anyone suggest some good efficient speakers that matches well with SET amp (~15W)? I like the Avantgarde, but my wife will never agree to the high price and the "hate it/love it" look. Thanks inadvance.

Nick

Coincident has a "new" speaker at their website rated at 95 db. I would discuss it with Mr. Blume to see if he has designed it with either low powered push/pull or SET tube amps specifically in mind. There is another manufacturer, I think that their name is Swan (and not the Diva one) that makes wooden horn loaded (the bass anyway) speakers. Doug (Sedond) had given me their website once, but I lost it. Good and efficient means expensive as far as I know. It also will depend on the amp itself as some seem to have a lot more driving power than others rated at the same power output.

I have a pair of 91db Ribbon Hybrids (Newform Research R645's) that work well with the 35W AES-25 Superamp (DJH Version). I listen almost exclusively to large orchestral music and have been pleased. Am looking for just a little more oomph for the bottom octave and may augment with subwoofer. Otherwise, the dynamics are fine. My solid state Amp (Odyssey Stratos) goes lower and has more visceral impact. However, it does not have the sweet midrange or highs of the AES.